No Negotiations with Trump: Panama Refuses to Relinquish Control Over Canal
In a firm stance against US President-elect Donald Trump’s recent remarks regarding the Panama Canal, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has clarified that there will be no discussions over the control of this vital waterway. The president vehemently denied any claims of Chinese interference in the canal’s operations, emphasizing Panama’s sovereignty. This statement comes after Trump criticized the canal’s tolls for US vessels and hinted at a possible demand for its return to American control.
Mulino made these declarations at a press conference held in Panama City on Thursday, asserting, “The canal is Panamanian and belongs to Panamanians.” He further indicated that the control of the canal is a matter of national pride and historical significance, stating, “There’s nothing to talk about,” underlining the sacrifices made by Panamanians to retain authority over this crucial maritime route.
The Panama Canal, which opened in 1914, was initially constructed by the United States. However, control was transferred to Panama on December 31, 1999, through treaties established by former US president Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. With approximately five percent of global maritime traffic relying on the canal, its operational integrity is of utmost importance to both Panama and the global shipping industry.
Trump’s Discontent with Canal Fees and Allegations of Chinese Influence
On Saturday, Trump criticized the tolls collected for US ships crossing the canal, labeling them as “ridiculous.” He expressed concerns about Chinese influence in the region, stating, “It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else.” Trump’s comments suggested that if Panama could not secure and manage the canal effectively, the US might demand its return. “We will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question,” he warned, signaling his administration’s potential hard stance on the matter.
Mulino responded to these claims by reiterating the established processes governing the canal’s tolls, which he stated are not dictated by the whims of individual leaders, but rather determined through a public and transparent process. “There is absolutely no Chinese interference or participation in anything to do with the Panama Canal,” he emphasized, seeking to assuage fears regarding the canal’s operational autonomy.
A Strong Denial of Chinese Military Presence
In response to Trump’s unfounded allegations that Chinese soldiers were “lovingly, but illegally, operating the Panama Canal,” Mulino expressed disbelief and concern. In a passionate rebuttal, he stated, “There are no Chinese soldiers in the canal, for the love of God,” dismissing the claims as unfounded and harmful.
Panama established diplomatic relations with China in 2017 after severing ties with Taiwan, a move that was met with criticism from the Trump administration. Despite the diplomatic shift, Mulino maintains that this has not impacted the sovereignty or independence of the Panama Canal.
The tension between the US and Panama was further highlighted by protests held by Panamanian citizens outside the US embassy in Panama City. Demonstrators chanted slogans like “Trump, animal, leave the canal alone,” and even burned an image of the incoming president, showcasing the public’s sentiment towards perceived threats to their national interests.
Summary of the Ongoing Situation
This latest exchange between Trump and Mulino reflects a broader narrative about international maritime control and national sovereignty. The Panama Canal is not just a crucial route for global shipping; it also symbolizes the complex historical relations between Panama and the United States. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the assertion of control over such vital infrastructures becomes increasingly contentious.
In light of these developments, the Panamanian government is standing firm in its commitment to maintaining control over the canal while denying any foreign influence, particularly from China. The focus now shifts to how the incoming US administration under Trump will navigate this diplomatic impasse and the potential implications for US-Panama relations moving forward.